These Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips are crispy, tasty, and oh-so-easy to make! With just zucchini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you’ll have a perfect snack that’s light and guilt-free.
I love making these for movie nights! They’re a hit with everyone, and let’s face it, you can’t go wrong with that garlic and cheese combo. Who needs popcorn? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work best for a nice crunch. If you don’t have zucchini, try using eggplant or yellow squash for a similar taste and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, though the taste will vary.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are fantastic for extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs will also do the job. For a gluten-free option, use crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Garlic Powder: I recommend garlic powder for even distribution, but fresh garlic works too. Just use about 1-2 cloves minced and add it to the breadcrumb mix.
How Do You Get Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, the way you prepare the zucchini is essential. First, slicing the zucchini evenly allows them to cook uniformly. Here are a few tips for extra crispy chips:
- After slicing, sprinkle the zucchini rounds with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws moisture out of the zucchini, helping them crisp up in the oven.
- Be generous with the egg wash—it helps the breadcrumb coating stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each chip space, so they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs adds a great crunch.
Following these tips will give you crispy, golden zucchini chips! Enjoy!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh finely chopped)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20–25 minutes to bake, making it a perfect quick snack or side dish that is ready in just 30–35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the zucchini chips become nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini chips a flavorful coating!
3. Coat the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the zucchini. Repeat this for all the slices.
4. Arrange and Spray:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping; this helps them crisp up better. Lightly spray or drizzle the tops with a little olive oil to promote browning.
5. Bake Until Crispy:
Bake the zucchini chips in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They go perfectly with ranch or garlic dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious and crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is recommended for its flavor, you can try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the taste slightly.
Can I Make These Zucchini Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes! To make them in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
What if my Zucchini is Watery?
If your zucchini seems watery, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process will draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the recipe to ensure crispiness.
How to Store Leftover Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For maximum crunch, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving again.
